Duke ellington and his orchestra* duke ellington & his orchestra - the piano player

The ambitious young musician moved to New York City in 1923, and after a rough start, began to make a name for himself, especially after landing a job at the Cotton Club, Harlem’s most famous nightspot. By the late 1920s, Ellington was developing a unique sound for his band. Above all, the sound depended on the distinctive instrumental voices of his musicians. He hired and featured some of the greatest, most individualistic players, including the alto saxophonist Johnny Hodges, the trombonist Joe “Tricky Sam” Nanton and the trumpeter Cootie Williams.

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